Brian Hernandez Jr. is enjoying a standout year, highlighted by winning the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby in May with Thorpedo Anna and Mystik Dan.
Hernandez became only the eighth jockey to complete the Kentucky Oaks-Derby double, a feat last achieved by Calvin Borel in 2009.
Mystik Dan placed second in the Preakness but had a disappointing eighth in the Belmont. He is now preparing for a return after some time off.
Thorpedo Anna continued to impress in 2024, including a dominant win in the Breeders’ Cup Distaff at Del Mar in November.
Hernandez called 2024 a "magical year" as he guided multiple top 3-year-olds to victory in prestigious races, making it a career-defining season.
Hernandez has always looked up to his father, Brian Hernandez Sr., a retired jockey, and credits his upbringing for shaping his career.
Hernandez’s favorite venues are Churchill Downs and Fair Grounds, with the Kentucky Derby being his most cherished race.